As part of the environmental monitoring for the Alton Natural Gas Storage Project, a 96 hour trial took place in the fall of 2016. A 96 hour trial is commonly used to scientifically test the tolerance of fish to specific environmental conditions such as salinity.

Today the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia released a decision setting aside the Minister of Environment’s April 18, 2016 decision to dismiss an Appeal by Sipekne’katik First Nation. The Court has ordered the matter be referred back to the Minister for further action. The Industrial Approval remains in effect for Alton and the Court did not issue a stay against further project work. A copy of the decision is available on The Courts of Nova Scotia website here.

Natural gas and natural gas storage have an important role to play in Nova Scotia’s energy future, and will help Nova Scotia become one of the most environmentally and economically sustainable places in the world.

We’d like to provide you with an update on the Alton Natural Gas Storage Project. Based on feedback we have heard from some members of the community and the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, we have decided to pause major civil construction activities until this summer. The company will only undertake routine maintenance and minor upgrades of its facilities. This break in activity will allow for more discussions about the project.

At Alton Natural Gas Storage we strive to excel as responsible corporate citizens by giving back to the community by providing funding to non-profit organizations, projects and initiatives that help build and enhance the community.

Alton Natural Gas Storage LP (Alton) recognizes the rights of the Sipekne'katik and stakeholders to appeal the Government of Nova Scotia's decision to issue all remaining permits for its natural gas storage project.

January 21, 2016 (Stewiacke, NS) – Alton Natural Gas Storage LP (Alton) welcomes the recent issuing of all remaining permits by the government of Nova Scotia for its natural gas storage project. Alton will continue its efforts to engage the community and maintain a collaborative, consultative approach to developing natural gas storage facilities near Stewiacke, Nova Scotia. Alton has been working with the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia and federal and provincial governments to integrate and implement recommendations from a Kwilmu'kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO)-commissioned third party review into its monitoring plans. This collaboration ensures the appropriate environmental and ecosystem measures are in place to protect the Shubenacadie River, its fish and fish habitat. Historically, storing hydrocarbons in underground salt caverns has been the safest, most secure method of natural gas storage. We look forward to resuming operations in a safe and respectful manner.

As you may be aware, an article was published in the Tuesday, Dec. 9th Chronicle Herald titled, "Alton project neighbour fears huge blast". The article is very concerning to us as misinformation was conveyed, which naturally caused concern for people in the area.